Celebrities React To Dustin Diamond's Death
On Feb. 1, 2021, Dustin Diamond died just three weeks after learning about his stage IV small cell carcinoma diagnosis, which Diamond's rep Roger Paul confirmed to Us Weekly. The actor, who made pop culture history playing Screech Powers on Saved by the Bell, was only 44 years old. Diamond's rep revealed that the cancer "managed to spread rapidly throughout his system," explaining that "the only mercy it exhibited was its sharp and swift execution" and that the actor "did not suffer."
Paul described the former TV fixture as a "humorous and high-spirited individual whose greatest passion was to make others laugh," and he wasn't the only one to reminisce about Diamond's comedic talents. His former Saved by the Bell co-star Mark-Paul Gosselaar tweeted, "Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dustin Diamond, a true comedic genius. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. Looking back at our time working together, I will miss those raw, brilliant sparks that only he was able to produce. A pie in your face, my comrade." Other celebrities publicly shared their grief as well.
Many fellow comedic actors paid tribute to Dustin Diamond after his death
Many people felt like they grew up with Dustin Diamond, watching his portrayal of Screech on Saved by the Bell. He was also very much appreciated by other funny people in the entertainment industry, who shared their condolences. Talk show host Wendy Williams tweeted, "Our hearts go out to the family, friends and fans of actor #DustinDiamond who passed away today at the age of 44 after a short battle with cancer." Comedian and The Real co-host Loni Love eloquently stated, "Dustin Diamond you really were a diamond who gave the world one of the most lovable tv characters .. thank you for making my childhood a little more funnier.. rest now. Condolences to his family."
Marlon Wayans shared, "Damn... rest well Dustin. Thanks for Screech. You made many kids that's now adults laugh. Will never forget the celebrity boxing. And I'm still trying to forget that sex tape. you lived man. Quite entertaining. Gone too f***ing soon." Diamond's friend, and New Found Glory drummer, Cyrus Bolooki tweeted, "RIP #Screech @dustindiamond I will miss your random texts/videos of the most hilarious jokes and your absolute love for all things music. Sad that we never got to jam together. Hope you get to keep playing music up in Heaven."
Diamond has made so many people laugh, even people he had never met. And, thanks to Saved by the Bell re-runs, that legacy of laughter will continue forever.